Is 70 Too Old to Wear Shorts? Real Talk on Style, Comfort, and Confidence

There’s a quiet rule floating around that says once you hit 70, you should put away the shorts. No one says it out loud, but you feel it-the side-eye at the grocery store, the unsolicited comment from a cousin, the way your mirror seems to judge you more than usual. The truth? 70 is not too old to wear shorts. Not even close.

Why Do People Think 70 Is Too Old for Shorts?

The idea that older people shouldn’t wear shorts comes from old-school fashion rules that were never really about comfort or health-they were about appearances. Back in the 1980s and 90s, magazines and TV shows pushed a very narrow idea of what ‘respectable’ dressing looked like for seniors: slacks, button-downs, closed-toe shoes. Anything shorter than the knee was seen as ‘childish’ or ‘inappropriate.’

But here’s what those rules missed: bodies change. Skin gets thinner. Joints stiffen. Heat becomes a real problem-especially in cities like Toronto where summers can hit 35°C. Wearing long pants in July isn’t fashion; it’s a heat risk. Seniors are 20% more likely to suffer heat-related illness than younger adults, according to Health Canada. Shorts aren’t a fashion statement-they’re a safety choice.

What Shorts Actually Look Good on People Over 70?

Not all shorts are created equal. If you’ve ever tried on a pair of athletic shorts that ride up or a pair of denim cutoffs that look like they belong to a teenager, you know the struggle. The key isn’t avoiding shorts-it’s choosing the right cut, length, and fabric.

• Length matters: Aim for shorts that hit mid-thigh or just above the knee. Anything shorter than that can look unintentional. Mid-thigh is flattering on most body types and gives enough coverage without feeling restrictive.
• Fabric choice: Go for cotton, linen, or blends with a little stretch. Avoid stiff polyester or shiny synthetics-they trap heat and look cheap. Linen is breathable, lightweight, and naturally wrinkles into a relaxed, elegant look.
• Fit over tight: Shorts should sit comfortably on your waist without digging in. If you’ve gained weight around the midsection, try a slightly looser fit with an adjustable waistband. No one needs to feel like they’re in a corset at 75.

Real people over 70 are wearing shorts daily-not for attention, but because they feel better. Take Margaret from Hamilton, 72, who walks her dog every morning in khaki shorts and a cotton tee. She says, ‘I used to think I looked silly. Then I realized I felt like myself for the first time in years.’

Jeans vs Shorts: What’s the Real Difference?

Jeans have been the go-to for older adults because they’re durable, easy to find, and feel ‘safe.’ But jeans aren’t always the best choice-especially in summer. A pair of denim jeans weighs about 1.2 pounds. That’s like carrying a small bag of sugar around all day. Plus, denim doesn’t breathe. It traps sweat and heat, which can lead to skin irritation and discomfort.

Shorts, on the other hand, let your skin cool naturally. They’re lighter, more flexible, and give you more freedom to move. If you’re gardening, walking, or just sitting outside with coffee, shorts give you more comfort without sacrificing dignity.

And here’s the thing: jeans aren’t off-limits either. Many people over 70 wear both. Jeans for cooler days or errands. Shorts for hot mornings and weekend lounging. It’s not about picking one over the other-it’s about matching your clothing to your day.

What Do Other People Really Think?

You might worry about judgment. But here’s what most people actually think when they see someone over 70 in shorts: nothing. Or maybe, ‘That person looks comfortable.’

A 2023 survey by the Canadian Association of Aging found that 87% of respondents under 65 said they didn’t notice or care what older adults wore-unless it was obviously inappropriate (think: pajamas to a wedding). The real judgment isn’t coming from strangers. It’s coming from inside your head.

And that inner critic? It’s usually echoing voices from decades ago. Your parents. Your teachers. That one aunt who always said, ‘You’re too old for that.’ But you’re not 40 anymore. You’re 70. And you’ve earned the right to wear what feels good.

How to Build a Shorts-Ready Wardrobe Without Breaking the Bank

You don’t need to buy a whole new closet. Start small.

1. Check your own drawers. You might already have a pair of cotton shorts from 10 years ago that still fit fine.
2. Visit thrift stores or consignment shops. Brands like Lands’ End, Eddie Bauer, and Banana Republic often have high-quality shorts in sizes 36-44 that are barely worn.
3. Look for sales in late spring. Many retailers discount summer styles in May-perfect timing for early summer prep.
4. Stick to neutral colors: navy, khaki, olive, charcoal. They’re easier to match and look more polished than bright white or loud prints.

One pair of well-fitting shorts, paired with a simple tee and sandals, is all you need to feel confident. No need for matching sets or designer labels.

When Shorts Might Not Be the Best Choice

There are times when shorts aren’t ideal-and that’s okay. If you have sensitive skin, sunburns, or skin conditions like eczema, you might prefer lightweight long pants with UV protection. Some people with mobility issues find that shorts don’t offer enough coverage when getting in and out of cars or chairs.

That’s not a failure. It’s just a personal choice. The goal isn’t to wear shorts every day. It’s to have the freedom to wear them when you want to.

There’s no rule that says you have to dress like everyone else your age. You don’t have to prove anything to anyone. Your body, your comfort, your style.

Real People, Real Stories

Robert, 78, from Ottawa, started wearing shorts again after his hip replacement. ‘I couldn’t bend to tie my shoes in jeans,’ he says. ‘Now I wear linen shorts and slip-on shoes. I can walk farther, sit longer, and actually enjoy the park.’

And then there’s Linda, 71, who wears shorts to her book club. ‘I used to wear long skirts because I thought it looked more ‘ladylike.’ Then I realized-I’m not a lady because of what I wear. I’m a lady because of how I treat people.’

These aren’t outliers. They’re everyday people choosing comfort over outdated norms.

Final Thought: Style Isn’t About Age. It’s About Choice.

Wearing shorts at 70 isn’t about being trendy. It’s about being yourself. It’s about choosing clothes that let you live fully-whether that’s chasing grandkids, tending a garden, or just sitting in the sun with a book.

There’s no expiration date on comfort. No rulebook written in stone that says your legs have to stay covered after a certain birthday. You’ve earned the right to move freely, breathe easily, and dress like you mean it.

So if you’ve been holding back-stop. Grab a pair that fits. Step outside. Feel the breeze. You’re not too old for shorts. You’re just getting started.